The 2020 Audi Q7’s Horrible Fuel Economy Should Make You Pause
The 2020 Audi Q7 is a stylish, large SUV and brings plenty of upscale touchpoints that most expect from Audi. There are a few new additions this year to this third-row seating contender. If the Audi Q7 is on your list of potential new purchases, it may help to see what some experts suggest are noteworthy pros and cons for the SUV.
While there’s plenty about the Q7 to get excited about, there are a few potential setbacks. The fuel economy ratings alone might make you pause.
What the 2020 Audi Q7 upgraded this year
According to Edmunds, the latest model year for the Q7 is part of the second generation, originally introduced for 2017. Expect updated styling for 2020, which might make it more appealing.
Under the hood, Audi has a new V6 engine with more available horsepower than last year’s model. Inside the cabin, the infotainment system might have you seeing double, as it now features two screens.
Reviewers like the exterior
Audi is known for its sleek designs and attention to detail when it comes to exterior style. This year’s SUV is getting praised for the new octagonal grille and vertical bar look.
Some suggest the finish gives the Q7 more dimension in the front. As part of the redesign, available LED taillights and HD Matrix headlights, with Audi laser lights, add more pizzazz. You’ll have plenty of wheel options, including the 19-inch, 21-inch, or 22-inch versions.
The Audi Q7 gets high marks for handling
Another pro for the 2020 Audi Q7 is its precise handling. Reviews point out how handy the optional all-wheel steering system is when it comes to maneuvering the large SUV through tight spaces.
The experts also tend to point out the smooth ride, even on uneven surfaces. There is an available adaptive air suspension that offers five various height settings to the SUV. Being able to adjust your ride’s firmness is almost like selecting a sleep preference number for your mattress.
The infotainment system gets mixed reviews
The in-cabin tech might be the biggest upgrade to the Audi Q7 this year. The system is split into two screens now, each responsible for its own controls. The lower, 8.6-inch screen will aid the driver in managing climate controls. The upper, 12.3-inch touchscreen is where the multimedia system is operated.
There is yet another screen within the instrument panel, completely powered by the Audi Virtual Cockpit platform. While these features and extra screens may sound appealing, some reviews are pointing out not having actual knobs for climate control might be a feature you miss. The knob that is available controls the volume.
However, it’s positioned on the passenger side, making it tough to reach for the driver. And, some reviews remark that all those screens tend to show collected dust and fingerprints.
Uncomfortable in the back
There are a few cons, according to the experts. The new optional engine variation, a 3.0L V6 that harnesses 335 horses, might lag when you hit the gas. There is even a pause when engaging the Sport mode, from the time you push the pedal, and the SUV takes off ahead.
Another setback is the comfort quality for passengers in the second and third rows. Second-row seating is only available in a bench. And the third row is so cramped; some suggest there is barely enough adult room. Third-row passengers won’t have enough headroom, no air vents, and no USB ports.
Fuel economy deal-breaker
If you accept some experts’ dislikes, the fuel economy ratings for the 2020 Audi Q7 might be your deal-breaker. This updated version of the luxury SUV took a hit in this year’s gas ratings from last year. You’ll only enjoy 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. More time at the pump will cost you extra, especially when you have to buy premium gasoline, as Audi advertises for the best performance.
The 2020 Audi Q7 is not a bad SUV. But it does come with a few cons worth noting. Considering some of the other SUVs in this segment, you might be better served behind the wheel of another ride.
